A variety of simple assistive devices are available for use inside all SFPL libraries. Ask for them at reference desks at each branch library and on floors 3 - 6 of the Main Library.

Assistive Devices for People who are Blind or have Vision Disabilities

"Ergotouch" 2X hand-held magnifier

This is an economically priced and effective magnifying glass. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Magnifying sheet - 8.5" X 11"

The size of this is magnifier makes it useful for viewing illustrations, maps, etc. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Signature guide

When placed on a sheet where people need to sign their name, this simple tool makes it easier for users to write in the correct location. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Page writing guide / reading guide

Standard line spacing makes this useful for people filling out print forms. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

18-Inch Braille+Large Print Ruler

This simple desk tool has universally accessible design. SOURCE: American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.

Sanford 20/20 pen

The unscented ink from these inexpensive bold pens doesn’t bleed through paper. Bold lines are easier for people with low vision to read. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Assistive Devices for People who have Dexterity Disabilities

Roberts Book Holder

Accommodates books and magazines of varied sizes and weights. SOURCE: The Wright Stuff

Ergo Pencil Grips provide greater comfort and control for both right and left handed users, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Fit on most any pencil or pen. SOURCE: Peterson Directed Handwriting

Assistive Device for People who are Hard of Hearing

Pocketalker Ultra Amplifier with Neckloop

This small personal amplifier, for one-on-one communications, can be used at a service desk, when walking with a person to the stacks, or in a public computer class or program. The neckloop is used by people who have personal hearing aids.

Headphones

Used with the Pocketalker by people who don’t have hearing aids.

Headphone Disposable Covers

Made of sheer, medical grade poly, these should be replaced after each use. SOURCE: Hearing / Communication / Technology, San Francisco

Assistive Devices for People who have Learning Disabilities

18-Inch Braille+Large Print Ruler

This simple desk tool has universally accessible design. Rulers can help people write more legibly by providing a horizontal line to use as a reference. They can also be placed under the line of text currently being read, so that the reader is not distracted by the text that immediately follows. SOURCE: American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.

"Ergotouch" 2X hand-held magnifier

This is an economically priced and effective magnifying glass. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Magnifying sheet - 8.5" X 11"

The size of this is magnifier makes it useful for viewing illustrations, maps, etc. SOURCE: Adaptations Store, San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Ergo Pencil Grips provide greater comfort and control for both right and left handed users, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Fit on most any pencil or pen. SOURCE: Peterson Directed Handwriting